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Systemic lupus erythematosus: a clinical update
Author(s) -
Connelly Kathryn,
Morand Eric F.
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
internal medicine journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.596
H-Index - 70
eISSN - 1445-5994
pISSN - 1444-0903
DOI - 10.1111/imj.15448
Subject(s) - medicine , disease , intensive care medicine , quality of life (healthcare) , systemic lupus erythematosus , autoimmune disease , psychological intervention , lupus erythematosus , immune system , immunology , nursing , antibody , psychiatry
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multi‐system autoimmune disease known for its complexity and heterogeneity. Striking diversity can be observed between individual patients, in terms of clinical manifestations, serological abnormalities, disease progression and response to therapy. Furthermore, dysfunction of a broad range of immune pathways underlies disease development and expression. An appreciation of this diversity is vital in order to diagnose accurately and appropriately treat patients with SLE as there is no one‐size‐fits‐all diagnostic test or treatment. Optimal management involves identifying affected organs, assessing severity, differentiating activity from irreversible damage and tailoring immunosuppressive treatment accordingly. Non‐pharmacological interventions, attention to disease and treatment‐related comorbidities and addressing the significant impact on health‐related quality of life are also crucial to maximising patient outcomes.